Parent/Student Handbook 2020-2021 - Rev. 8/13/20 - Why St. Raphael?
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Parent/Student
Handbook
2020-2021
Rev. 8/13/20
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
May God bless you and your families! It is my joy and my honor to welcome you to our
parish community of St. Raphael the Archangel Catholic Church. For 70 years, this great
parish community has served the people of the upper Highlands and the surrounding
neighborhoods with joy, with pride, and with a Christ centered focus. I love being your
pastor and I look forward to loving, serving, and knowing you and your family. As I
mentioned in my first homily which I delivered upon my arrival as your new pastor, I
stated that the only way our great traditions can continue is if we do it together.
One of the most vibrant and available opportunities we have in our parish is our parochial
school. I am excited about our present and our future. We have a dedicated and energetic
staff, committed to discipleship and collaboration. I do not have to tell you that we are
currently living in some dark times in our world, our country, and in our local community.
Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI once said, “This world promises you comfort, but you were
not made for comfort, you were made for greatness!” That is our mission and our focus at
St. Raphael the Archangel Catholic School, and you and your children will soon discover
how great you are in the eyes of God, and how greatly you are needed for our parish and
our school to flourish and to grow.
We know you have other options and a variety of choices, so thank you for making an
investment for your child’s life and for their future as disciples and saints for the Church
and for our community. Please know that my door is open if I can ever be of assistance. I
look forward to getting to know you and I look forward to working with our new principal,
Ms. Jill Tabor. Exciting things are happening here and the Holy Spirit is certainly at work.
Let us pray for one another and let us daily strive for greatness!
Respectfully, yours in Christ,
Rev. Fr. Shayne R. Duvall
A US Department of Education Blue Ribbon School of Excellence
2Philosophy of St. Raphael the Archangel School
The primary and ultimate purpose for the existence of St. Raphael School is to assist parents in
fulfilling their role of educating their children with a quality Catholic education. St. Raphael
School is a learning community organized to foster the spiritual, moral, intellectual, social,
emotional and physical growth of its members in a spirit of peace, dedication, freedom and love
that is based on the Gospel message.
Vision Statement
St. Raphael School will be an exemplary school, worthy of the Gospel, with Christ as its vision,
embracing families with a diversity of faiths, traditions, and cultures.
Mission:
St. Raphael the Archangel is a faith-filled, Catholic community serving God, families and
children by instilling the core values of faith, community, academic excellence and leadership.
Faculty Mission Statement
We prepare our students to live productive and moral lives as self-directed, lifelong learners,
with a strong foundation for future success, by providing quality instruction in a friendly and
caring environment.
Student Honor Code: Offertory Prayer
As a St. Raphael student, I will show respect for all things, for myself, and for others at all times.
I will contribute to the learning environment. I will follow school and classroom procedures. I
will show integrity and honor in all my accomplishments. I will treat others with kindness and
help others to grow in love as a child of God.
ADMISSION/PLACEMENT/WITHDRAWAL POLICIES
Non-Discrimination Policy
St. Raphael School admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights,
privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the
school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin in
administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs or
athletic and other school administered programs.
Admission of New Students: Order of Acceptance
Students who have registered for Grades Preschool -8 and qualify for acceptance will be
accepted in the following order:
1. Children of school families registered in the parish with siblings enrolled.
2. Children of school families registered in the parish with a child/children enrolling in St.
Raphael for the first time.
3. Children of school families not registered in the parish with siblings enrolled. (Non-
parishioners).
4. Children of school families not registered in the parish with a child/children enrolling in
St. Raphael for the first time. (Non-parishioners)
3Please be aware that all acceptances are conditional upon the school’s being able, by employing
reasonable accommodations, to meet the needs of the child.
APPLICATION FOR ADMISSION
Before an acceptance can be made, the following must be provided to the school office:
• Completed Application
• $200 application fee per child (only refundable if a child is not accepted)
• Signed release of information form allowing St. Raphael to contact the prospective
students previous school
• Current Report Card
• Standardized Test Scores
• Student Accommodation Plans including any assessment data
• PRESCHOOL: Eligibility for Acceptance
• The proposed student shall be four years of age by August 1st for the school year for
which he/she is seeking admission.
• Students might be tested by the teachers for readiness.
KINDERGARTEN: Eligibility for Acceptance
The proposed student shall be five years of age by August 1st for the school year for which
he/she is seeking admission.
• Signed and completed preschool information form
• All students will be tested by the teachers for readiness.
FIRST GRADE: Eligibility for Acceptance
The proposed student shall be six (6) years of age by August 1st for the school year for which
he/she is seeking admission and shall have successfully completed a certified kindergarten
program.
• Students may be tested for readiness.
• After an acceptance decision has been made, parents must provide the following
information:
• Immunization certificate
• Health records
• Birth certificate
• Baptismal record (Catholic Applicants)
• Statement from a doctor or therapist verifying any diagnosis and/or medication which
may impact the student in school
• Copies of any psychological testing
• Signed permission to obtain records from previous school to be used if student is
accepted
• Any court documents such as custody agreements, guardianship documents, etc., which
the school needs in order to keep your child safe
Application and Re-enrollment: Fees and Deadlines
The application process is ongoing.
Re-enrollment for students currently attending St. Raphael School will be held in mid-January.
4An application/re-enrollment fee, which will be applied to the school's annual Instructional
Materials Fee, is to be paid at the time of application/re-enrollment. The fee is refunded only if
the child is not accepted into St. Raphael School.
The remainder of the school’s instructional materials fee will be due by July 1st.
Acceptance and Enrollment Process
For students already enrolled, acceptance is automatic if the Re-Enrollment form and
Instructional Materials fees are received on time. The student must also be in academic and
behavioral good standing.
For new families, immediately after the acceptance decision is made:
The parent will be notified in writing that the student is:
• accepted with the condition that the student's official records are received from the
previous school within 20 days of acceptance
• accepted with conditions
• placed on a waiting list
• not accepted
Homeroom Placement Requests
It is the policy of St. Raphael School that students be placed in homerooms by teacher
committees (except in the case of late registrations) based on several guidelines which include
teacher-student match in teaching and learning styles, mix of male/female, learning needs, and
other concerns. Parent requests for specific homeroom placement are not accepted.
Publication of Class Lists
Class lists will be published on Sycamore by Meet Your Teacher Day.
Withdrawal
Families withdrawing from St. Raphael School are required to notify the school Principal. If
transferring, records will be sent to the new school upon request from the Principal of that
school. Records will be withheld if the tuition account is not current. If the child has attended
one day in any month, tuition is not refunded for that month.
Permanent Records
The student’s permanent record card contains standardized test results, final grade averages,
attendance information and teacher’s signature. Parents and/or guardians or their legal
representative may have access to the official permanent record file. Parents may call the school
office to review their child’s records. Please allow two working days for records requests.
Discipline records are not a part of the child's permanent record and are not sent on to the next
school unless there are extraordinary circumstances making disclosure a legal requirement or the
parent requests it in writing.
TUITION PAYMENT PLAN/POLICIES
Enrollment Agreements are sent to families at the end of each school year. This agreement is
used to communicate upcoming year tuition rates and payment options to families. This form
must be completed and returned to the school office.
5DELINQUENT TUTION
The school relies upon the tuition and fee payments to provide an excellent spiritual and
educational program operating on a balanced budget. Therefore, when tuition and fee payments
become delinquent, it is a serious matter. If family financial circumstances change to such a
degree that it warrants re-evaluation of the tuition and fees commitment, it is the responsibility of
the family to contact the Parish Manager or Pastor as soon as possible. Some examples of such
circumstances may be a family emergency, such as illness or loss of employment. Failure to
comply may impact your family’s’ ability to get St. Raphael Tuition Assistance at a future date.
When payments are not made in accordance with the agreement the responsible party committed
to in the FACTS program, the following steps will take place:
30 days past-due:
• When an account becomes 30 days past-due under the established agreement, the
financial responsible party will receive a written notification explaining the commitment
and require immediate attention to the matter.
• It is the responsibility of the responsible party to contact the Parish Manager within 15
days of receipt of this notification to correct the situation or make an acceptable alternate
plan for payment.
60 days past-due:
When an account becomes 60 days past-due under the established agreement, and the alternate
payment plan is not being fulfilled, the responsible party will receive written notice explaining
the commitment and require immediate attention to the matter. In addition to this notification, the
following will also take place:
• Report cards and transcripts will be withheld until balance is paid in full, or an alternative
plan has been approved.
• A face to face meeting will be held with the responsible parties, Parish Manager and
Finance Council Chair/Pastor.
• Student(s) will not be permitted to pre-register or to return for the following academic
year until the balance is paid in full, or an alternative plan has been approved.
90 days past-due:
When an account becomes 90 days past-due under the established agreement, and previously
arranged payment plans are not being fulfilled, the responsible party will receive written notice
explaining the commitment and require immediate attention to the matter. In addition to this
notification, the following will also take place:
• The Finance Council will be informed of the past-due account information.
• Student(s) will be withdrawn from St. Raphael Preschool, School and Athletics.
• Report cards and transcripts will be withheld until full payment is made
• The finance office of the Archdiocese of Louisville will be informed of the account
delinquency.
6If a student leaves for any reason during the school year, parents are responsible for tuition
according to the following:
• 25% of tuition from the first day of school thru September 30
• 50% of tuition from October 1 thru November 15
• 75% of tuition from November 16 thru December 31
• 100% of tuition after January 1
St. Raphael the Archangel Church encourages all responsible parties to maintain open
communications with the Parish Manager to ensure a complete understanding of each family’s
financial circumstance. The goal of St. Raphael the Archangel Preschool and School is to
provide a Catholic school education to every student that desires one. By working together, we
can make sure this goal is met.
Policy subject to change after annual review.
ATTENDANCE/ABSENCE POLICIES
Full or Half Day Absence
St. Raphael School complies with the Kentucky Department of Education’s policy on student
attendance, which is also mandated by the Archdiocese of Louisville. A student who attends
fewer than three hours will be marked as absent for the entire day. A student who attends more
than three but fewer than six hours will be marked as a half-day absence.
While we are aware this is not always possible, every attempt should be made to schedule
appointments outside school hours in order to avoid absences.
Absenteeism
For any absence, a parent or guardian must notify the school office before 8:00 a.m. on the day a
student will not be in school. Parents may send in a note, email or call stating the reason for the
absence. If the absence is expected to last for more than one day, the parent or guardian should
mention this when notifying the school office. Any student absent from class for an entire
school day or more must bring a written letter of explanation for the absence from his/her
parent(s) or guardian(s) when he/she returns to school. For any student absent for more than
fifteen (15) days during a school year, the parent will receive notification and next steps will be
determined.
The only exception to the above stated policy will be for extended or chronic illness of the
student when
• A statement from the attending physician documenting that an extended or chronic illness
has been responsible for the excessive absence and that documentation has been received
by the Administration in a timely manner.
Teachers may require make-up work and tests from a student for any day of absence regardless
of the reason for the absence.
7Absence for Shadowing at a High School
Shadowing is a great way for students to get a feel for a high school if they are still deciding
which school they want to attend. Seventh grade students shadow in the Spring, eighth grade
students shadow in the Fall.
Students are strongly encouraged to shadow on days when the elementary school is not in
session. If a student shadows on a day when the elementary school is in session, a shadowing
form must be completed, by both a parent and an elementary school administrator, in advance of
the shadowing experience. If the form is completed in advance and returned with an appropriate
verification from the high school office, the absence will be considered excused. The student still
has an absence recorded in their attendance record, but all missed work may be made up and
turned in for a grade. If the form is not completed prior to the shadowing experience, and
returned to the school office after the experience, the absence is considered unexcused.
Excused Absence
Students are expected to make up all missed class work, homework, and tests due to an excused
absence. Students will receive full credit for completed work. For each day a student is absent,
he/she will be given two days to make up the missed work.
Unexcused Absence
Students must make up work whether absence is excused or unexcused. An absence is recorded
on a student’s record of attendance, and the permanent record card, as unexcused when one of
the following occurs:
• Excessive absence without a doctor’s note with diagnosis and statement of necessity of
absence. This can also result in required summer school even though the student is
otherwise eligible for promotion.
• Absence used to extend a holiday, break, or long weekend without a doctor’s note or
documentation of other sufficient reason (funeral or court appearance for example) and
without prior administrative consent of the principal. Parents must access Sycamore
while the student is absent to get homework assignments and that work must be turned in
immediately upon return to classes. Other assignments (class work) may be provided
upon the student’s return with a specific completion date attached.
• Absence on Terra Nova test days without a doctor’s note or documentation of other
sufficient cause. This can also result in an additional fee being assessed to pay someone
to administer and supervise testing and go over work the student has missed because of
being pulled from regular classes to do the testing.
• Absence for a Shadowing Experience without turning in required paperwork according to
the policies found in the Student/Parent Handbook or the Guide to Student Recruitment.
Student may be subject to a detention during which a report on the experience will be
completed.
• Truancy (three or more days of unexplained absence – see item 6). This will result in
issuance of at least a Level 3 School Behavior Report and can result in suspension, and/or
probation, or dismissal. This can also result in notification of proper authorities.
• Unexplained absence (no signed and dated note received from the parent just prior to or
just after the absence explaining the reason for the absence). This can also result in a
report of truancy to the proper authorities.
8Absence for Trips
The school discourages absence for the opening and closing days of the school year, as well as
the practice of “extending” long weekends or holiday breaks. It is especially essential that
students not be absent on days scheduled for Terra Nova testing. See additional information
under the heading UNEXCUSED ABSENCE.
Requesting homework when your child is absent
Parents in K-8 should check Sycamore for homework assignments, notes, etc. and posted work is
expected to be completed and turned in upon the child’s return to school. Be aware that changes
may occur if the class covers more or less material than expected on a given day during your
child's absence. Check Sycamore periodically for updated assignments. Essential classwork may
be provided upon your child’s return to school along with a date for completion.
For an extended absence, if you need a specific textbook in order to complete an assignment,
please request that it be sent to the school office for pick up the next day. In middle school, be
sure to include your child’s locker number in the request.
Tardiness
Students are expected to be on time for school. A student in grades Pre-K through 8 is tardy
when he/she arrives at homeroom/class between 7:50 a.m. (after class bell has rung) and 8:30
a.m. when the school day is scheduled to begin at 7:50 a.m. When school opens on a delayed
schedule, a student is tardy if he/she arrives at homeroom/class within one-half hour after the bell
has rung to begin the school day.
After the fifth tardy, parents will receive a letter reminding them of the expected arrival times.
After the tenth tardy, a meeting with the principal will take place to determine the next step.
Early arrival before school
Students may begin arriving at 7:00am and enter through the school office. Students who arrive
between 7:00am and 7:30am will report to the media center.
Regular car riders arrive between 7:30 and 7:50 a.m., enter the school building by the ramp door
and report to their classrooms. Student are not permitted to enter through the office doors
between 7:30-7:50 a.m. Students not arriving in time to report to their classrooms by 7:50 are to
come in the main entrance on Lancashire to pick up a tardy slip.
DISMISSAL PROCEDURES
Early Dismissal
If the student is to leave the school early or be away for a specified time, the teacher and school
office are to be notified by the morning of request. Before a student is dismissed early, a parent
or guardian must sign the student out in the school office.
Late Pick-up
Car rider dismissal ends at 2:45 p.m., students not picked up by this time will be assessed a $5
late fee. If a student is still not picked up by 3:00p.m, a late fee of $15 will be assessed per child.
A late fee form will be given to the parent upon arrival and the payment will be due with three
school days from receipt of the form. After three late pick-ups, a letter will be mailed home
9reminding of the school policy. On the 4th late pick-up, a meeting will be required with the
school administration.
Dismissal at the end of a full school day (Grades Pre-School 3’s-8th Grade)
Students are dismissed as follows:
2:20 Classes return to homerooms/houses
2:25 Afternoon Announcements; immediately following announcements Car riders are
to report dismissal area; YMCA is dismissed to the cafeteria
2:35 Walkers are dismissed through the Lancashire side door by the flagpole. Walkers
are to leave the premises quickly so as not to be in the way of any cars exiting
either the St. Raphael or Assumption High School lot. Students riding home in a
car should not be exiting as if they are walkers.
2:45 Assumption pickups dismissed to media wait for pickup
Students getting picked up by Assumption teacher or student will be dismissed at 2:45 to the
media center to wait. Students must be picked up through the school office to sign out those
students.
Dismissal at the end of an early dismissal school day
Students are dismissed as follows:
12:50 Classes return to homerooms/houses
12:55 Afternoon Announcements; immediately following announcements Car riders are
to report dismissal area; YMCA is dismissed to the cafeteria
1:00 Walkers are dismissed through the Lancashire side door by the flagpole. Walkers
are to leave the premises quickly so as not to be in the way of any cars exiting
either the St. Raphael or Assumption High School lot. Students riding home in a
car should not be exiting as if they are walkers.
Car-Rider Dismissal Procedure:
Every family will be assigned a number and given two free hang tags to display on their rearview
mirror whenever using the car-rider line.
Families may request additional tags or replacement tags at a cost of $3.00 per tag.
Families should be sure their child knows their number. It is strongly encouraged that they put
the child's number on their backpack.
If the driver forgets the tag, he or she may NOT pick up the child in the car-rider line; he or she
must come to the school office and present ID to pick up the child. That person must be the
custodial parent or guardian or be on the list of approved drivers provided by the parent.
Change in Manner of Dismissal for Your Child:
Parents must provide a signed and dated note or email to the teacher if the child will be going
home in a different manner than the child is registered to go home. Telling the child to tell the
teacher is NOT sufficient.
10If the case of an emergency, the parent must notify the school office by phone and the school
office will notify the child's teacher. State your child's dismissal number (carpool tag number)
when making the notification.
Returning after dismissal
No student is permitted in the building after dismissal unless participating in a
supervised/approved activity. Students will not be allowed to return to the building for books,
personal items or assignments.
Parking on Lancashire or at area businesses during dismissal
Parking on Lancashire or at area businesses during dismissal to pick up students is prohibited. It
is important that we are good neighbors. Area businesses have the right to have your car towed if
you use parking spaces they have provided for their employees or customers.
SCHOOL INFORMATION
Class Size
St. Raphael is committed to providing a student-teacher ratio which allows some individual
attention to each student each day. Every attempt is made to maintain class sizes which are
below the Archdiocesan recommended number of students per class.
Physical Education
A note from a parent or a physician is necessary to excuse a child from physical education class
or to document the need for adjustments to activity.
Text Books
St. Raphael School uses a book rental system, the cost of which is covered in the Instructional
Materials Fee. The student will be held responsible for the use of rented books. If a book is lost
or damaged, it must be replaced by the student/parent(s). Marking, tearing or defacing a book
will be considered cause for replacement. The penalty on any replacement is the current list price
of the book. Report cards may be withheld pending retribution. The student is responsible for
keeping track of the book. Missing books are the responsibility of the student to whom the book
is assigned.
Field Trips
Students will be provided with field trips of an educational or cultural nature. Permission slips
signed by the parents/guardian are required for each child. Parents/guardian will be informed of
the date, destination and transportation arrangements. Students who do not attend the field trip
are expected to report to school. We cannot accept electronic signatures for permission slips and
students will not be allowed to call a parent to bring a permission slip on the day of the trip.
St. Raphael School carries liability insurance for field trips. A bus evacuation drill will be
conducted on the first field trip. Procedures used are listed in this handbook under “Health and
Safety.” School buses will be the only method of transportation for the field trip.
Volunteer chaperones for field trips and school events must be at least 21 years of age, submit to
a criminal records check, provide documentation of attendance at Safe Environment training
(training schedule can be found at www.archlou.org) , and provide emergency information to the
school office. Legal guardians, grandparents and adult siblings of students in the group are
11eligible to volunteer as chaperones. Parents may not delegate chaperone duties to friends or other
adults who do not meet the qualifications noted above. If an emergency or illness prevents a
parent from fulfilling chaperone duties, and no one meeting the qualifications above can be
found, notify the school as soon as possible and the school will find someone to take over.
All field trips are privileges, not rights. If behavior is such that the student cannot behave
appropriately in a confined and well- supervised area such as a classroom, the school has no
obligation to take that student outside the confines of the school.
Cafeteria
Buying lunch: Lunch money may be sent in through the Friday Folder, or may be paid in advance
for the entire year. Checks should be made to Taher. Menus are also posted on the school’s
website.
Bringing Lunch: Because of the federal guidelines on school lunch programs, neither students
who bring their lunch, nor adults who come in to visit with the children may bring soft drinks
(this includes Lunchables which contain a small soft drink) or items displaying the logo of a fast
food restaurant into the school cafeteria. For younger students, please verify that your child is
able to open the items which you provide in their lunch bag.
12Academic Standards
Grade Subject Grading Scale
Pre-School 3’s / Pre-K 4’s All subject areas O Outstanding
S Satisfactory
KP Keep Practicing
K All subject areas + 89.5% - 100%
V 89.4% - 75.5%
- 75.4% - 0%
O Outstanding
Growth Skills S Satisfactory
N Needs Improvement
1 Reading/Math/Spelling A= 92.5%-100%
B= 83.5% - 92.4%
C= 74.5% - 83.4%
D= 69.5% - 74.4%
U= below 69.4%
All other subject areas + 89.5% - 100%
V 89.4% - 75.5%
- 75.4% - 0%
2-3 Reading, Language Arts, A= 92.5%-100%
Math, Social Studies, B= 83.5% - 92.4%
Science, Religion C= 74.5% - 83.4%
D= 69.5% - 74.4%
U= below 69.4%
Special Areas + 89.5% - 100%
V 89.4% - 75.5%
- 75.4% - 0%
4-8 All Subject Areas A= 92.5%-100%
B= 83.5% - 92.4%
C= 74.5% - 83.4%
D= 69.5% - 74.4%
U= below 69.4%
For students experiencing academic difficulty in one or more of the subjects that meet daily, i.e.
religion, reading, English, math, social studies and science:
-When a student achieves below 75% mastery level in one or more of the above-named subjects
during any given trimester, it is strongly recommended that the student be involved in a tutoring
program (approved by the Administration) for the following trimester.
-When a student achieves below 75% average mastery level for the school year in one or two of
the following subjects – reading, English and/or math – satisfactory completion of a program
approved by the Administration may be required for promotion into the next grade level.
13-When a student achieves below 70% average mastery level for the school year in all three of the
following subjects: reading, English and math, the student may be retained in the grade in which
his/her performance in these subjects is unsatisfactory.
-When a student achieves passing grades but is experiencing difficulty related to his/her maturity
level, determination of his/her promotion will be made on an individual basis.
Homework
The objectives of homework are to reinforce classroom learning and to develop independent
study skills. It is expected that parents will: Monitor assignments on Sycamore, check child’s
planner, and check homework for completion. Incomplete or missing homework assignments
will result in disciplinary action per the Code of Student Conduct.
Make-up work policy for Excused Absences
Students are expected to make up all missed class work, homework, and tests due to an excused
absence. Students will received full credit for completed work. For each day a student is absent,
he/she will be given two days to make up the missed work.
Make-up Work Policy for Un-Excused Absences
Students are expected to make up all missed class work, homework, and tests due to an un-
excused absences. Students will received half credit for completed work. For each day a student
is absent, he/she will be given two days to make up the missed work.
Test Scores below 70%
If a student earns below a 70% on an exam, it is strongly recommended that the teacher and
student meet to discuss how to improve future performance.
PARENT SIGNATURES (Friday Folder and Sycamore Grade Reports):
There is a form attached to the front of your child’s Friday Folder, which is to be initialed by a
parent each week. The signature indicates the parent has reviewed both the contents of the
Friday Folder and the grades on Sycamore. If there is a specific paper requiring a separate
signature, it will be a sign and return stamp or a sign and date space. In middle school (grades 6-
8), the student is responsible for taking the papers out of their mailbox and placing them in the
Friday Folder.
Principal’s List/Honor Roll
Students in grades 4 through 8 earning all A’s on their report cards (including special area
classes) are eligible for the Principal’s List. Students in grades 4 through 8 earning all A’s and
B’s on their report cards (including special area classes) are eligible for the Honor Roll. Students
will be recognized at the end of each trimester.
Assessments
The assessment program is designed to identify individual strengths and weaknesses and provide
information on the individual as compared to national norms.
The MAP Assessment will be used as our universal system of assessment and will be
administered 3 times per year in grades K-8.
14Students in Need of Special Services
The Archdiocese of Louisville promotes a model of inclusion for children with disabilities in our
schools. We believe that children with disabilities can be successful within the regular
classroom setting when strategic teaching methods are utilized and appropriate accommodations
are implemented. Unlike the public school system, private schools do not receive state and
federal monies to fund special education programs. Therefore, we do not write or accept I.E.P.s
(Individualized Education Plans) as public schools are mandated to accept. Our schools are
guided by the Archdiocesan Intervention Protocol.
Prior to admitting a student with a diagnosed disability, our schools must consider:
1. The severity and degree of the disability.
2. The level of support needed from special services or any special equipment the student may
require.
3. The number of students with disabilities currently enrolled in an assigned class. It is
recommended by the Archdiocese that no more than 10-15% of students with disabilities be
enrolled in any one classroom.
4. An individual school’s resources such as available support personnel, class size, accessibility
of school facilities, etc.
For those students accepted and enrolled in our schools who are experiencing learning or
behavioral difficulties, a school Intervention Team meets to write a Student Strategy Plan which
identifies specific goals and strategies which are directly related to the student’s strengths and
needs. The Student Strategy Plan is shared with parents, teachers keep ongoing documentation
of the teaching strategies they are utilizing, as well as the results of those strategies, and the
Student Strategy Plan is evaluated/revised after a designated period of time. If/when it is
determined by the school Intervention Team that formalized testing information is needed, a
request for a psycho-educational assessment will be made.
For those students accepted and enrolled in our schools with a diagnosed disability, Student
Accommodation Plan (SAP) are written. The school will convene a meeting whose members
consist of school personnel, parents, and the student (when appropriate). This team collaborates
to identify the accommodations, which can be provided to enable the student to become a more
successful participant in a particular class setting. All members of the Intervention Team are
asked to sign an agreement stating the responsibilities and rights of all parties. Documentation is
kept on student progress and reconvening dates are established to evaluate the success of the
Student Accommodation Plan.
If needed, the Archdiocesan Assistant Superintendent is available to consult with schools on
particular students and to offer assistance after the following:
1. The initial parent/teacher meeting has been conducted.
2. A School Student Strategy Plan/Student Accommodation Plan has been implemented for at
least 6 weeks.
3. All team members in a reconvening meeting have reviewed the plan.
15By signing below, I understand that I am required to provide my child’s school with all pertinent
educational and medical records and all previous assessment information. I understand that I
have the right to access my child’s records at any time. I understand that all information
concerning my child is held in confidence at the school level. I understand that I am afforded the
grievance procedure as articulated in my child’s school handbook. I understand that I have the
right to be kept informed of all educational decisions concerning my child and I have the right to
be a full-time participant in the intervention process.
Middle School Leveling
7th and 8th grade students will be leveled in the content areas of mathematics and science. Levels
are determined based on teacher input, class performance, previous grade reports, assessment
data (e.g., STAR, Terra Nova, ACUITY, etc). Throughout the year, teachers and administrators
will analyze student performance and make level adjustments as needed in order to meet the
needs of student.
Counseling Information
As a part of our support of students and for student/teacher/parent relationships, we provide a
part time, credentialed counselor. The counselor works as an administrative team member, and
collaborates with faculty and staff to address potential problems in a preventative manner. The
primary functions of the school counselor are the support of students’ academic and social
development at school and the well-being of the student body, including individual students,
student groups, and student interpersonal relationships. Specific interventions may include
individual counseling, group counseling, and peer mediation. Classroom-based guidance sessions
are conducted as indicated and appropriate.
Although not every interaction between a student and the counselor requires parent contact, any
student interaction that elicits a concern that, in the estimation of the counselor, requires
additional assessment or outside counseling/therapy will be brought to the attention of the
parents/guardians. Parents/guardians are expected to take an active part in the problem-solving
process, including but not limited to meeting with the counselor and follow through with
recommended referrals. Once a referral is made, the counselor is expected to serve as a support
for the student in the school environment, a role that requires regular communication with
parents and the outside counselor or therapist.
The school counselor is expected to work with students as needed, based on individual
circumstances. However, counselors in the schools of the Archdiocese of Louisville are not
expected to serve as primary counselors or therapists for individual students, but as a referral
source, should the need for regular counseling be determined.
Parents/guardians see their children outside of the school environment, and are encouraged to
contact the counselor if they notice changes in their child or have other concerns about their
child. Please note that the limits of confidentiality apply to school counseling as they do to any
other type of counseling. Information about a student will be shared under the following
conditions: a) if a student is a danger to themself or to another person; b) if there is any
16suspicion or evidence of abuse or neglect; c) if a parent/guardian has signed a release of
information.
RELIGIOUS FORMATION
The moral and religious formation/education of a student has its roots in the home. The purpose
of the Catholic school is to build on Christian home life by giving formal religious instruction.
At St. Raphael, the purpose is not only to teach Catholic doctrine, but also to help our students
learn to live it. To accomplish this, the students have classroom instructions given by certified
catechists, preparation for the Liturgy, and active participation in the celebrations. In addition, all
students are encouraged to live out what they have learned and celebrated by undertaking
voluntary service projects and by attending religious services with their parents on weekends.
Religious Instruction for Non-Catholic Students
St. Raphael the Archangel School is a Catholic school whose primary mission is providing
instruction in the faith. As such, all students enrolled will participate in religious instruction.
Non-catholics will attend religion classes with other students and will be expected to do
assignments in those classes. Non-Catholic students will participate in the religious instruction
and are invited to participate in the evening sacrament-related preparation activities at their grade
level.
Sacrament Fees
There are sacrament fees charged as part of the book bill at specific grade levels. Regardless of
the child’s religious affiliation, those fees must be paid, as all students will participate in the
religious instruction.
Participation in Sacraments
Only baptized Catholics may receive the following sacraments: First Reconciliation, First
Communion, and Confirmation.
Children of other faiths may be invited to participate in sacrament ceremonies by distributing
programs, greeting, ushering, or performing other services appropriate to their grade level, but
cannot receive the sacrament itself.
Reconciliation Services
Parents are encouraged to take their children with them to participate in the Communal Penance
Services offered by the parish on a seasonal basis or to private confessions held on the 1st
Saturday of each month. Please check the parish Sunday bulletin for times.
Worship
All students attend weekly Mass on Thursdays at 8:15. There may be occasions when this
changes, such as when a Holy Day or other special occasion falls during the week. Masses and
Virtues in Practice assemblies are noted on the calendar in Sycamore and will appear in The
gReat News. Students will attend a monthly Virtues in Practice assembly focused on values and
skills developed to educate them for life.
Servers
17The honor of participating in the Ministry of Altar Server is the choice of the individual student
and his/her parents. While this is a parish sponsored activity, not a school sponsored activity,
students trained as servers may miss class time to serve funeral Masses or Noon Mass and will
serve Mass for the regular school liturgies at their grade level. Instructions are generally given to
fifth grade students who wish to participate. Both Parish School and Parish Sunday School
children are eligible. This is a true stewardship opportunity for the parents as well as the children
since the commitment on the part of the student to become an Altar Server also requires support,
encouragement and commitment from the parents who must see that the server meets his/her
obligation. The server schedule for each week is listed in the Parish Sunday Bulletin and also on
our web site.
DRESS CODE
Parents are expected to work with us in seeing that students follow the school’s dress code
requirements. When you select a school, you elect to follow the dress code of that school.
Uniform purchase
The school uniform items must must be purchased from Shaheen’s and must have the correct
stock number. Navy uniform pants may be purchased wherever uniforms are sold as long as they
meet the description given below in the dress code. Please put student names in all articles of
clothing for your children.
Optional summer uniform item for girls and boys in Preschool thru 8
(May be worn from the first day of school through October 31st and from April 1st through the
last day of school.)
Navy Uniform Shorts – must be uniform shorts with belt loops, pleat or flat front, hemline
closely approaching the knee, no cuffs. (Hemlines must fall between the student’s fingertips and
the knees.)
18Optional items for Middle School Students only
Grades 6 through 8 only: House system sweatshirts purchased on a special order form found in
the summer packet. (Only worn on house meeting days or spirit wear days)
Grade 8 only: Gray signature sweatshirt (special order)
Grade 8 Boys Only: Plain white button down with tie and Khaki pants (must be uniform pants)
from November 1st-March 31st
Khaki pants may only be worn with shirt & tie
Standard school uniform for girls and boys in K thru 8
(May be worn anytime; must be worn November 1st-March 31st)
All items should be purchased from Shaheen’s
Blouse/Shirt:
- White or Hunter Green Embroidered Logo uniform cotton polo; short or long sleeve
(Grades K-8)
- Solid white cotton uniform polo only if worn under school sweatshirt or jumper.
- Embroidered Logo Polo, Hunter Green, Dri Fit (short sleeve only) (Grades K-8)
- Embroidered Logo Polo, Yellow; short or long sleeve (Preschool Only)
Pants:
Navy Uniform Pants- must be uniform with belt loops, pleated or flat front, no cuffs, length
should break at the shoe top, and pants should fit at the waist.
Girl’s items:
Grades Preschool-3: Plaid uniform jumper #194350-55
Grades 4-8: Plaid uniform skirt #GAT350-55 (if this style will not fit your child, the old style
will also be accepted)
Hemlines must fall between the student’s fingertips and the knees
Shaheen’s Embroidered Logo Navy Button Down Cardigan Sweater
Sweatshirts:
These Items may be worn over the appropriate school uniform:
Shaheen’s Embroidered Logo ¼ Zip Navy Sweatshirt
Shaheen’s Embroidered Logo ¼ Zip Navy & Hunter Green Dri fit Long sleeve Pullover
Shaheen’s Embroidered Logo ¼ Zip Hunter Green or Navy Fleece
8th Grade Class Sweat Shirt-Gray with Green lettering
Hair, Cosmetics, Accessories, Etc.
Hair: A neat conservative hairstyle of reasonable length; bangs at or above the eyebrows for
both boys and girls, and above the ear and shirt collar in back for the boys. Any process which
produces a drastic change in hair color or an unnatural hair color is not acceptable. The student
will be sent home until the color is washed out or, in the case of a permanent dye or bleach,
returned to a shade which is as close as possible to his/her natural color. For less noticeable
infractions regarding hair, the regular non-compliance procedure will be followed.
Cosmetics: Make-up, artificial nails, tattoos, etc., are not permitted. Seventh and eighth grade
girls may wear very light make-up on picture day.
19Shoes: The only shoes permitted are athletic/tennis shoes or dress-style shoes made to be worn
outside. Shoes must enclose the foot (no sandals, flipflops, backless, or toeless shoes, etc.) Hi-top
tennis shoes are allowed but socks must be visible at all times. No boots of any kind (such as
dress boots/hiking/construction/work shoes) are to be worn with the exception of rain or snow
boots (which are to be removed and exchanged for regular shoes upon arrival at school). Shoes,
if not slip-ons such as loafers or Toms, must be tied or fastened at all times. Socks must be easily
visible above the shoe tops. Shoes with heels higher than one-half inch, fur trim, sound, wheels,
lights, or excessive decoration are not allowed.
Belts: Navy, brown or black belts must be worn. Must be solid in color. Boy Scouts may wear
Boy Scout belt.
Socks: Navy, white or black socks are to be worn. Socks must cover the ankle and be solid in
color. Socks must be worn on uniform break days, but the color is not regulated.
Girls may wear solid colored navy or black opaque tights (not translucent or sheer). Socks are
optional with tights.
Girls may wear solid colored navy or black ankle length leggings. Socks must be worn with
leggings.
Earrings: Earrings are not an approved item for boys even if covered by a Band-Aid. Earrings
for girls, if worn, should be small (not to exceed the size of a nickel). There may be no more than
two earrings in each ear. No other piercings are acceptable.
Other Jewelry/Accessories: Jewelry and other accessories must be small, unobtrusive, and not
excessive in number. T-shirts or tank-style undershirts worn under the uniform shirt must be
solid white. Jackets or coats should be worn to school and on the playground in cold weather.
Any type may be worn as long as there are no inappropriate slogans or logos on them, but
students will be required to remove them upon entering class or church. No purses are allowed at
school. Students have access to lockers between classes.
General Appearance
We expect our students to look neat at all times. Therefore, when purchasing clothing for your
child to wear to school, please keep these guidelines in mind:
Since shirttails must be tucked in at all times, the shirt must be long enough to remain tucked in
even when the student moves around.
Clothing should be checked for rips, hanging hems, missing button, etc., and repairs made.
All clothing should be appropriately sized – neither form-fitting, nor oversized.
Shorts, skirts and jumpers: Hemlines must fall between the student’s fingertips and the knees.
Waistbands of slacks and skirts are to be worn at the waistline.
Slacks which are too long should be appropriately hemmed.
Skirts must not be rolled over at the waistband.
Except on the playground, sweatshirts are not to be tied around the student's shoulders or waist.
20Sprit Wear Uniform Breaks
Students may wear a St. Raphael spirit wear top with any bottoms. Bottoms must be free from
holes, rips, tears, etc. Leggings may be worn; however, shirt must be long enough to cover the
student’s bottom. Students may wear any shoes; however, they must enclose the foot (no
sandals, flipflops, backless or toeless shoes, etc.) On all uniform break days, the previous rules
entitled Hair, Cosmetics, etc. pertain. Hats are not permitted for in-school uniform breaks unless
a special announcement is made. Drug, violence, gang related, or obscene logos are not
permitted. If a student comes to school on uniform break days and has not followed the rules,
the parent will be called to bring appropriate items and the student will not be allowed to
participate in the scheduled event until he/she is dressed in appropriate attire.
Special Uniform Breaks
Specific rules for what may be worn will be sent home in a flyer, or the information will be
communicated through an article in school newsletter. However, on all uniform break days, the
previous rules entitled Hair, Cosmetics, etc. pertain. Hats are not permitted for in-school uniform
breaks unless a special announcement is made. Drug, violence, gang related, or obscene logos
are not permitted. In summer, sleeveless blouses are acceptable, but thin-strapped tops, form
fitting tops or tops which display the student’s midriff are not appropriate. If a student comes to
school on uniform break days and has not followed the rules, the parent will be called to bring
appropriate items and the student will not be allowed to participate in the scheduled event until
he/she is dressed in appropriate attire. If that is a field trip, and the class has already left the
school, the parent will have the option of allowing the child to remain at school or personally
driving the child to the field trip destination. If there is any question about whether or not an item
would be acceptable, please send the child’s uniform with them so we will not need to contact
you to bring alternate clothing and your child will not need to miss out on any part of the
scheduled activity.
Non-Compliance
There will be a dress code check daily during homeroom period. Infractions of the dress code
will be dealt with in the same manner as any other infraction of the Student Code of Conduct.
Repeated failure of the student to follow the dress code (leaving shirt tail out, rolling waistband
of skirt, wearing make-up or distracting jewelry, etc.) would necessitate the issuance of a
Behavior Report form. If the non-compliance requires parental action (taking the student to a
barber, beautician, or stylist; purchase of an appropriate dress code item; adjusting hem length,
etc.) the following series of steps will be followed:
1. Dress Code Violation Notice will be sent home to the parent to be signed and returned.
2. Phone call or e-mail to parent from teacher.
3. Conference with parent called with the administration.
21HEALTH AND SAFETY
Health Information
Students who become ill or injured during the school hours are taken to the school office. Parents
are notified, if necessary, to come for the child. Students will be sent home automatically if any
of the following symptoms are demonstrated: fever of 100 or more, unexplained rash, vomiting
or head lice. It is expected that the child will be picked up within one hour of notification.
Please note: The administration of St. Raphael School is legally responsible for reporting to
Child Protective Services the incidence(s) of any ill child remaining at school for an
unreasonable amount of time after the parent(s)/guardian have been notified of the child’s illness.
If a student sustains an injury to the head, the parent will be notified so he or she may make the
determination on whether or not to send the child home.
Should a student be required to be on a prescription medication that must be taken during school
hours, the medication is to be kept in the office. Only in those cases where immediate response is
necessary (asthma attack, severe allergic reactions, etc.) may the medication be carried on the
child’s person. All medication must be in its original valid prescription container or commercial
packaging which includes:
Name of medication
Directions for giving
Signature of parent or physician
If your child is on any prescription medication that could affect his/her behavior, the child’s
teacher needs to be informed when the medication begins, changes or ends.
Absence Due to Illness
Students who miss school due to illness should follow these guidelines before returning to St.
Raphael:
• The child must be fever free for 36 hours.
• Must not have vomited within the last 24 hours
• Children with strep throat should be on an antibiotic for 24 hours.
• Children with chicken pox should return to school after all lesions/blisters have
completely scabbed over (7-10 days average).
Headlice Protocol
All cases of head lice should be reported to the school office immediately. The student must be
kept home until the medication has been shown to have the problem under control.
If a teacher suspects head lice, the student is sent to the school office and someone who has been
trained to spot them checks the child’s head. If no lice or nits are detected, the parent is notified
that the child has been scratching his or her head and that the parent should check at home for
lice or nits or see their pediatrician. If the child is found to have lice or nits they are sent home
and may not return to school unless they have been treated and are nit-free. Sibling are called in
and checked as well. If the sibling has lice or nits, a notification is sent to that grade level as
well. They must have been cleared by the healthcare provider as being nit-free and
22documentation provided or must be cleared by the school representative, who has been trained in
detection, upon return to school.
Medical Plan Procedures
All students with allergies or health conditions such as asthma, diabetes, epilepsy, etc. must have
a current medical plan on file. It is the parents’ responsibility to notify the school office and the
child’s teachers of any medical-physical problems of the child.
Safety Drills
School Safety Drills are conducted in accordance with Archdiocesan guidelines. Speed and order
require that absolute silence prevail during these drills.
Safety Patrol
Students in the fifth grade serve on the safety patrol for morning arrival and are placed at various
locations for the safety of the students. Eighth grade students serve on the safety patrol for
afternoon dismissal. Parents are urged to remind their children to obey directions given.
Traffic Guard
For the protection of the students, a traffic guard is stationed at Bardstown Road and Lancashire
Avenue and also Tyler & Eleanor Avenue before and after school hours. Times on duty: 7:30
a.m. – 8:00 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Field Trips-Safety Procedures
The following procedures are used:
• Number of bus riders will not exceed capacity.
• Adults on bus are to be seated at front and rear exits and at each push out window if
provided (required for out of county trips: two windows per side on 65 and 71 passenger
buses).
• A bus evacuation drill will be conducted prior to field trips.
• Medical release forms for each student passenger must be taken on each field trip and
kept in the possession of the teacher assigned as coordinator out of town trips. (In
addition to the above requirements).
• No bus making an out-of-county trip shall carry more than two passengers per seat.
• The aisle of the bus must be kept clear of all items such as luggage, coolers, etc.
• For students requiring medication during the day, teachers will carry and administer
medication as required prescribed.
Policy on Volunteers
St. Raphael School follows Archdiocesan guidelines with respect to volunteers who will be
supervising students in the school building or on the school grounds.
• Volunteers must submit to the appropriate state criminal record check and provide
emergency information to the principal.
• Volunteers must provide documentation of attendance at Safe Environment Training to
the school office.
• Volunteers may supervise children in non-instructional situations such as hallways
monitoring, cafeteria, playground, health screenings, and recreational activities.
23• Orientation information concerning school policies, procedures and legal considerations,
as they pertain to the volunteer, must be provided. The volunteer should request the
packet if it is not automatically offered.
• The principal has the authority to dismiss a volunteer who violates policies and
procedures of the school or whose actions harm the good name and reputation of the
school.
• All volunteers at St. Raphael School whose assigned duties may involve the acquisition
of knowledge concerning the behavior, academic ability, or academic performance of
students in the school are required to sign a confidentiality agreement. Such information
may not be discussed with anyone other than the child’s teacher or a school
administrator.
INCLEMENT WEATHER PROCEDURES
Closures and delays
Policy Regarding Emergency Closing Announcements: When weather conditions cause school
openings to be questionable, one of the following announcements will be made for Catholic
Elementary Schools in Jefferson County:
ALL Catholic Elementary Schools in Jefferson County are OPEN. St. Raphael School will
follow regular schedule OPEN – 7:55 a.m. DISMISS – 2:30 p.m.
Catholic Elementary Schools in Jefferson County will be OPEN, but on a DELAYED
SCHEDULE. St. Raphael School will follow this schedule: Classes begin at 9:50 a.m. dismiss at
2:30 p.m. School building will be open at 9:00 a.m. with entry through the front office. The
carpool ramp door and the individual classrooms open at 9:30 a.m.
All Catholic Elementary Schools in Jefferson County are CLOSED. The only time we will be
closed is when all Catholic elementary schools in Jefferson County are closed. Schools are to be
presumed open unless announced otherwise.
REACH Alert
All families are encouraged to register and create an account with Reach.alert.com. This is a
communication system used to send information, alerts and reminders via text and email.
To register for Reach Alert Go to www.reachalert.com. Click on “My Account” then “Create
Account” and follow the prompts. When asked which network you want to join, type “Raphael”
and “St. Raphael- Louisville, KY” will appear from a drop down list. You will then be asked to
enter a registration number. Enter 40205. If you request cell phone text messages, Reach
Alert will send you a text message with a validation code. Reach Alert is making sure your text
message will be successfully delivered. When you receive the validation code, enter this number
on the registration screen and then click “Validate.”
Early Dismissal Policy Due to Inclement Weather
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